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Ackermann will officially begin his new job with the Cherry and Whites next week, joining the squad on their pre-season training camp in Portugal on Thursday.

The South African has been in charge of the Johannesburg-based Lions since 2013, transforming their fortunes as he led them to promotion to Super Rugby before turning them into title contenders but they suffered their second successive final defeat against New Zealand opposition following last year’s loss to the Hurricanes.

Crusaders players celebrate after winning the Super Rugby title

He said: “I shed a lot more tears today than I thought I would. It’s been tough.

“It is emotional. It’s the last time I’m going to be in the changing room with these guys and walk away a special people, special group of players, special management and a special union so it’s a tough one but that’s sport.”

The Lions fought to the end after trailing 15-3 at half-time and being reduced to 14 men with flanker Kwagga Smith being sent off in the 39 minute for taking out David Havili in the air.

After two quick first-half tries from Seta Tamanivalu and Jack Goodhue, the Crusaders opened up a 25-3 lead in the second half after New Zealand captain Kieran Read scored a try under the posts but the Lions fought back with tries from Malcolm Marx and Corne Fourie.

Crusaders held their nerve though to leave Ackermann and the Lions hearbroken.

Lions captain Jaco Kriel said: "We love coach. It's not the way we wanted him to go out."